Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage Star Ratings 2026 — How to Use Them

Every Medicare Advantage plan receives an annual star rating from CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. These ratings are one of the most useful tools for comparing plan quality.
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What the Star Ratings Measure

CMS evaluates plans across five major domains:

Star Rating Scale Explained

The 5-Star Special Enrollment Benefit

If a plan earns 5 stars, you can switch into it any time between December 8 and November 30 of the following year — you don’t have to wait for AEP. This is a powerful benefit if a 5-star plan becomes available in your county.

See also: Best PlansEnrollment Guide